10:00 a.m.
Saturday, July 24, 2010

6-8:00 p.m.
Friday, July 23, 2010

Tamara (Tammi) Jeanne Hawk died at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan on Sunday, July 18, 2010.  She was born August 5, 1952, at Chanute, Kansas, the daughter of John Thomas Naughton and Opal Irene Locke.  She grew up on the family farm in Neosho County, and graduated from Chanute High School in 1970.

In 1975 she received a Bachelor's in Social Work from Kansas State University, and in 1981 a Master's in Social Work from the University of Kansas.  She later served as an adjunct faculty member in the KSU Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work.  From 1997 until the time of her death she was a member of the Georgetown Family Center and Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Special Post-graduate Program, and was engaged in clinical research. 

After working several years in Junction City with SRS child welfare services and USD 475, she joined Pawnee Mental Health Services as a therapist before entering private clinical social work practice in Manhattan in 1987 as a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW).

She married Thomas Dale Hawk on March 25, 1972, in Manhattan, Kansas.  She is survived by her husband of the home; two sons, Skyler Thomas Hawk and partner Ian Lesnet, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and Cameron Joel Hawk, Lawrence; her twin brother, John T. (Tom) Naughton and wife Shelley, Chanute; brother Gary Naughton and wife Barbara, Manhattan; sister Sydney Carlin and husband John, Manhattan;  five nieces and twelve nephews;  step-father Frank Stacy and his daughter Francene Johnson and husband Alan, Chanute; and father-in-law Dale Hawk,  Colby; her brother-in-law Donald Jay Hawk and wife Cathy, Colby; sister-in-law Rodica (Mc)Naughton, Scottsdale, AZ; and numerous great nieces and nephews.   She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Kenneth Dale (Mc)Naughton.

She was a member of the First Congregational (UCC) Church; the Kansas National Association of Social Workers which she served as president, 1995-1997;  and was the founder of the Prairie Center for Family Therapy in 1999.   Her professional career was focused on counseling individuals and families from all walks of life that find themselves in distress, and in promoting social equity.  As a volunteer, she worked for many years using her skills as a seamstress and clothing designer to support the Manhattan Civic Theater, Manhattan Arts Center, Manhattan High School Drama and Theater, and the City Recreational Children's Summer Musical productions.

Funeral services will at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 24, 2010 in the First United Methodist Church, 612 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan with the Rev. R. Kent Cormack and the Rev. Victor Force officiating.  Burial will follow in Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan. 

Visitation will be from 6 until 8 p.m., Friday, July 23, 2010 at the First Congregational Church United Church of Christ 700 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan.    

The family has established a memorial in Tammi’s name for the Georgetown Family Center & Bowen Center for the Study of the Family, Washington, D.C. and also for the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.   Contributions should be made in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS.   Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010

The family of Mr. Thierolf will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.
 

B. Dale Thierolf, 79, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, July 15, 2010 at his home.

He was born July 18, 1930 at Monowi, NE, the son of Benton James Thierolf and Marjorie C. Christensen Thierolf.  He grew up in Monowi, Norfolk and Wayne, NE and was a 1948 graduate of the Wayne High School.

He was united in marriage to Lois M. Andrews on May 27, 1951 at Columbus, NE.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Thierolf worked as manager for the Gamble Department Stores in Wayne, O’Neill and Fremont, NE as well as stores in Council Bluffs, IA and Kansas City, MO for many years.  Prior to leaving Gambles, he was the Regional Credit Manager in charge of a seven state area.  In 1964, he and his wife, purchased the Manhattan Credit Bureau and operated the business until his retirement in 2008.

Professionally, Mr. Thierolf had received his certification in the credit bureau industry and had served as president of the state Associated Credit Bureaus of America and president of the Kansas Collectors Association.  He had also served on the national board of the Associated Credit Bureaus of America.  Locally, he was a member of the First United Methodist Church, United Commercial Travelers, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, Lafayette Lodge No. 16, A.F. & A.M. and the Scottish Rite Bodies and Isis Shrine of Salina and had been the coach for a Little League Baseball team for several years.  He had served as president for the Eugene Field Elementary School PTA, Manhattan Shrine Club, the Shrine’s Tin Lizzies Club, Manhattan Lions Club and had also served as a Zone Chairman for the International Lions Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Beverley Johnson.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Thierolf is survived by two daughters, Connie M. Hampton, Bailey, CO and Gale D. Nebelung, and her husband, Don, Clay Center, KS; three sons, Craig A. Thierolf, and his wife, Carol and Chris L. Thierolf, all of Manhattan and Bruce D. Thierolf, and his wife, Mindy, Wamego, KS; three grandchildren, Julie Mink, Benton Thierolf and Wesley Thierolf; four step grandchildren, Cassie Chmiel, Ben Chmiel, Michele Schwananberger and Trent Nebelung; and two great grandchildren, Hannah Mink and Hailey Mink.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 20, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Kay Scarbrough officiating.  Burial, with Masonic committal services, will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family of Mr. Thierolf will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Shriner’s Childrens Hospital and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Thursday, July 8, 2010

The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home.
 

Anna M. Hawkins, 80, Manhattan, KS passed away Monday, July 5, 2010 in the Via Christi Village, Manhattan.

She was born December 3, 1929 at Emmeram, KS, one of twelve children born to John Michael Geist and Mary Magdelan Quint Geist.  She grew up on the family farm, near Emmeram, and attended the schools at Catherine, KS.

She was united in marriage to Robert M. Hawkins on January 5, 1948 at Great Bend, KS.  He preceded her in death on December 3, 2001.

Mrs. Hawkins lived in Lyons, KS for many years.  She worked as a nurse’s aid at the Lyons Hospital, a production worker at the El-Kan Manufacturing Plant at Ellsworth, KS, a crossing guard for the Lyons school district and did housework and janitorial duties for the Lyons Manufacturing Company.  She had been a Manhattan resident since July 2000.

She attended the Catholic church and enjoyed sewing, crocheting, cooking and being a Girl Scout leader.  She also volunteered many hours to the Rice County Council on Aging.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and ten siblings.

Survivors include four daughters, Sherry L. Sheridan, Rensselaer, NY, Georgia M. Mulanax, and her husband, Lloyd, Manhattan, Bessie A. Day, Wamego, KS and Susie E. Burt, and her husband, Charles, Great Bend; a sister, Evelyn Waldschmidt, Hays, KS; 15 grandchildren; and 23 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 8, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Don Zimmerman officiating.  Burial will follow in the Valley View Memorial Gardens, Manhattan.

The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

2:00 p.m.
Friday, July 2, 2010

The family of Mr. Perry will receive friends from 7 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, July 1, 2010 at the funeral home.
 

Charles “Charlie” H. Perry, 72, Manhattan passed away Tuesday, June 29, 2010 as a result of a traffic accident, north of Manhattan on Highway 24.

He was born June 19, 1938 at Bedford, IN, one of nine children born to William Perry and Ollie Cobb Perry.  He grew up in Bedford and attended the local schools.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam Conflict.  He was honorably discharged in 1971 at Ft. Riley and was the recipient of several National Defense and Vietnam Service Medals.

After his military service, Mr. Perry continued to live in the Manhattan area and worked many years in Water and Waste Water Management with the Civil Service at Ft. Riley.  After his retirement, he continued in the Waste Water Management, working for the cities of Manhattan, Junction City, St. George and Dwight for a number of years.  He retired in 2000.

He was united in marriage to Nancy M. James Henry on January 27, 1990 in Wamego.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Perry was a member of the Church of God and had recently been attending the Living Word Church, Manhattan.  He was also a member of the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786, Manhattan.

He was preceded in death by parents; a brother, Burchell Perry; and two sisters, Sally Roth and Irene Stewart.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Perry is survived by two daughters, Debbie Perry, of California and Joy Henderson, Bedford, IN; a step-son, Kevin Henry, and his wife, Amy, Manhattan; a step-daughter, Sonja Hannington, and her husband, Dave, Bucksport, ME; three brothers, Larry Perry, Oolitic, IN, Gene Perry, Bedford, IN and John Perry, Elgin, SC; two sisters, Lucy Mitchell, Oolitic, IN and Edna Whitaker, Elgin, SC; a granddaughter, Sarina Henderson; and five step-grandchildren, Tyler Henry, Chelsey Henry, Mitchell Henry, Sarah Hannington and Abigal Hannington.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 2, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home Chapel, Manhattan with Pastors Gary Ward and Lorenzo Jackson officiating.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in the Athelstane Cemetery, Longford, KS.

The family of Mr. Perry will receive friends from 7 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, July 1, 2010 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Charles Perry Memorial Fund, to be designated at a later date, and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Thursday, July 1, 2010

The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 30, 2010.
 

Raymond A. Linn, 90, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, June 26, 2010 in the Stoneybrook Retirement Center, Manhattan.

He was born May 27, 1920 on the family farm near Enterprise, KS, one of eight children born to Aaron Linn and Hilda Wilmena Marcuson Linn.  Because of the hard times during the 1920’s and the death of his father when Raymond was 1 and ½ years old, Raymond and two of his sisters lived at the Mariadahl Orphanage, at Olsburg, KS from 1926 until the entire family moved to Oberlin, KS in 1935.  Raymond continued his education and was a 1938 graduate of the Decatur, KS High School.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving as a Signal Corpsman in the European Theatre.  He was honorably discharged in 1945.

While stationed in Scotland, Raymond met Elizabeth Mitchell and they were later married on April 23, 1946 in Toledo, OH.  She preceded him in death on September 22, 2004.

Raymond farmed near Enterprise for a short time before moving to Westmoreland, KS in 1948.  There he farmed and worked for Pottawatomie County replacing bridges destroyed by the 1951 flood.  He also worked on the construction of the Tuttle Creek Dam.  In 1958, the Linns moved to Manhattan and Raymond worked as a Sanitation Engineer for the Civil Service at Ft. Riley for over 20 years retiring in 1982.

He was a member of the First Lutheran Church, Manhattan and a lifetime member of the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786.

In addition to his wife, Raymond was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Leroy Linn; and six sisters, Bernice Brooks, Ruth Boswell, Lucille Meagher, Lillian Wallmer, Evelyn Anderson and Anna Meagher.

Survivors include a son, Barry S. Linn, Manhattan; a daughter, E. Christine Turner, and her husband, Dennis, Dewey, AZ; four grandchildren, Jason, Eric, E’Lynn’, and Jeff; and several great grandchildren.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 1, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Dr. Keith E. Wiens officiating.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family will receive friends from 7 until 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of the donor’s choice and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com. 

3:00 p.m.
Monday, June 28, 2010

Viewing and family visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until service time at Meadowlark Hills.
 

Louise Helen Ferguson, 102, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, June 25, 2010 in the Good Shepherd Hospice House, Manhattan.

She was born September 2, 1907 in Barton County, KS, the third of six children, all of whom have preceded her in death, born to Copley D. Chalfant and Pauline Anna Brewer Chalfant.  Most of her early life was spent in Ellinwood, KS, but she graduated from high school in Wichita, KS in 1924.  Being only 16 years old, she returned to school for what was called “Normal Training”, which enabled her to teach in country schools, which she did beginning at age 18.

A college education became her goal, so after teaching for three years in Barton County country schools, she left and went to Wichita to enroll for morning classes at what is now Wichita State University.  She worked at a big department store afternoons and week ends to support herself.  Two years later, she transferred to K-State, earning her B.S. degree in 1933.  In addition to her several jobs for maintenance, she was very involved with her church, Y.W.C.A., a Literary Club, the Cosmopolitan Club and was elected to Mortar Board.

Following graduation, she taught in a Business College for one year and later at Rose Hill High School.  On August 3, 1935, she and her college sweetheart, John M. Ferguson, were married.  Much to their delight, two years later John was invited back to KSU to the position of Extension Agricultural Engineer and Manhattan was their home from then on.

Louise was a homemaker deeply involved in the schooling and activities of their family of three sons and a foster daughter.  The First Christian Church, Manhattan was important to her and she served for a number of years at both the local and state level.  She was a deacon emeritus and one year was named their Church Woman of the Year.  She was very active in AAUW (life member), the Garden Club, a member of the KSU Social club from 1937-present, the KSU President’s Club and had a continued interest in the foreign students that she and John sponsored until his retirement.

After John retired in 1969, Louise resigned from her various offices so she would be free to travel as they wished.  They enjoyed their many travels be car, by air, by ship and in their Airstream Trailer.  John passed away in 1982 and Louise continued to spend her winters in Scottsdale, AZ as they had done for so long.

Preceding her in death was her husband, John; a son, Michael D. Ferguson, her parents; and her brothers and sisters.

Survivors include two sons, Richard L. Ferguson, Lincoln City, OR and John David Ferguson, and his wife, Jacqueline, Ft. Myers, FL; a foster daughter, Wilma Roberts, and her husband, Dennis, Wichita; a daughter in law, Linda Ferguson, Deckers, CO; nine grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 p.m., Monday, June 28, 2010 in the Meadowlark Hills Community Room with the Rev. Ben Duerfeldt officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan.

Viewing and family visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until service time at Meadowlark Hills.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Meadowlark Hills Good Samaritan Fund and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010

The family will receive visitors from 7 until 8:30 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2010, in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  A visitation will be held at the Kleppinger Funeral Home, Jewell, KS, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010.

Fred E. Yapp, 85, Manhattan, KS, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2010, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House, Manhattan.

He was born March 8, 1925, at Jewell, KS, the only child born to Otis Eugene Yapp and Mariam Louise Kleiner Yapp and the only grandchild of August and Eldereka Shoreman Kleiner.  He grew up in Jewell where he attended the local schools and was a 1943 graduate of the Jewell High School.

He was a veteran of World War II, stationed in Florida where he served as an Aviation Electrician Mate with the U.S. Navy.

He was united in marriage to Thelda I. Menhusen on August 15, 1948, at Jewell.  She preceded him in death on July 21, 2007.

Mr. Yapp farmed his grandparents’ farm prior to moving to Manhattan.  He continued to manage the farm until his death.  Mr. Yapp had been a Manhattan resident since 1953.  He first worked as an electrician for Kansas State University; and from 1956 until his retirement in 1987 worked as an electrician for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local No. 226, Topeka, on many area construction sites.

He was a member of the IBEW Local No. 226 and served on many of its executive boards.  Local memberships included the Eagles Lodge, Elks Lodge No. 1185, Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Yapp was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include a son, F. Eugene Yapp and his wife, Joleen, Hoyt, KS; two daughters, Cheryl Yapp and Pansy Hoover and her husband, Thomas, all of Manhattan; eight grandchildren; Bart Bath, Cinnemon Bath Buie, Carrie Pugh Plummer, Luke Pugh, Britton Hoover, Alex Hoover, Amy Yapp and Alycia Yapp; and eight great grandchildren.

Per Mr. Yapp’s request to be cremated, there will be no viewing.  However, the family will receive visitors from 7 until 8:30 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2010, in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  A visitation will be held at the Kleppinger Funeral Home, Jewell, KS, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010.  Graveside services will be at the Jewell Cemetery immediately following visitation.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice House or the IBEW 226-Topeka JATC and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010

The family of Mr. Miller will receive friends from 7 until 8:00 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2010
 

Frank Miller, Jr., 90, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, June 17, 2010 in the Kansas Soldiers’ Home, Ft. Dodge, KS.

He was born April 3, 1920 at Milford, KS, the son of Frank Miller, Sr. and Vesta E. Wilson Miller.  He grew up on the family farm, near Milford, where he attended the local schools and was a 1937 graduate of the Milford High School.  He later received his B.S. degree in Biology and Genetics and a M.S. degree in Entomology from Kansas State University.

While at K-State, Mr. Miller participated in the ROTC program and upon graduation in 1941 entered the U. S. Army as a Second Lieutenant.  He served in the European Theatre, during World War II, and was the recipient of a Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster and a Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster.  He was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1946.

He was united in marriage to Winifred “Winnie” Jean Bayer on September 22, 1941 at Manhattan.  She preceded him in death on July 30, 2006.

Mr. Miller was a farmer and rancher near Manhattan for many years and was a member of the First Congregational Church and had served on the Riley County Farm Bureau Executive Board.  He had just recently moved to Ft. Dodge.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ernest Miller; and a sister, Edith Miller.

Survivors include two sons, Frank Miller III, and his wife, Linda, Dodge City, KS and Mason E. Miller, and his wife, Christine, Manhattan; three grandchildren, Chipper L. Miller, Wendy R. Allison and Scott C. Miller; two step grandchildren, Alan Thieme and Michelle Henry; and three great grandchildren, Kirsten Allison, Katlyn Allison and Trevor Allison; and three step great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Kevin Larson officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family of Mr. Miller will receive friends from 7 until 8:00 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Private Family Graveside Services were held on Friday, June 11, 2010

Herschell Neil Sorrells III, 48, Manhattan, passed away Sunday, June 6, 2010 at his home.

He was born September 7, 1961 at Atlanta, GA, the son of Herschell Neil Sorrells, Jr. and Margaret Anne Tinsley Sorrells.  He grew up in North Dakota and attended the local schools.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Persian Gulf War.

Mr. Sorrells had been a resident of Manhattan since 1991 and had worked at the Quaker Oats plant in Manhattan.  He had attended Kansas State University and was working towards a degree in Computer Science.

Survivors include his parents, Herschell and Margaret Sorrells, Williston, ND; three brothers, Troy A. Sorrells, Albertville, MN, Raymond Scott Sorrells, Fargo, ND and Jerry Sorrells, Bismarck, ND; and one sister, Shannon Sorrells, San Diego, CA.

Family graveside services were held Friday, June 11, 2010 in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Ft. Riley.  The Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan was in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Private Family Graveside Services were held on Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Cecilia Alice Irvine, stillborn daughter of John and Holly Irvine, Manhattan, passed away Sunday, June 6, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

In addition to her parents, Cecilia is survived by a brother, Wesley John Irvine and a sister, Anna Camille Irvine, both of Manhattan; her grandparents, Paul and Mary Beth Irvine and Bill and Kathi Stenfors, all of Manhattan; and great grandparents, Wesley and Betty Zenger, Haddam, KS.

Private family graveside services were held in the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Elbo community, Manhattan with Bishop George Fitzsimmons officiating.  The Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan was in charge of arrangements.

In keeping with the wishes of Mrs. Griffith, no memorial services are scheduled at this time.

Elizabeth Jean Griffith, 80, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, May 21, 2010 in the Good Shepherd Hospice House, Manhattan, KS.

She was born March 8, 1930 at Chicago, IL, the daughter of Curtis Barkes and Martha Wadsworth Barkes.  She grew up in Hinsdale, IL, where she attended the local schools and was a graduate of the Hinsdale High School.  In 1952, she received her B.S. degree in English from Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA.  Since living in Manhattan, she had attended classes in Women’s Studies at Kansas State University.

She was united in marriage to James P. Griffith in August 1952 at Hinsdale.  They were later divorced.  He preceded her in death in 1993.

Mrs. Griffith lived in Hammond, IN before moving to Manhattan in 1979.  She worked as a clerk and salesperson at the Town Crier Book Store in downtown Manhattan and later in the Aggieville shopping area for many years before retiring in 1995.

She was a member of the AAUW, Beta Sigma Phi-Master Omicron Chapter, and the Riley County FCE, all of Manhattan.  While attending Coe College, she was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.

Survivors include a son, Randy Griffith, and his wife, Myrna, Wamego, KS; a daughter, Connie R. Woodard, and her husband, Bill, Chanute, KS; a sister, Mary B. Smith, and brother-in-law, Don Smith, Coloma, WI; six grandchildren, Kyle Griffith, Michael Griffith, Kevin Griffith, Nathan Woodard, Christine Woodard and Rebecca Woodard; and one great-grandson, Anthony Griffith.

Cremation is planned.  In keeping with the wishes of Mrs. Griffith, no memorial services are scheduled at this time.  Inurnment will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice House or the Osa and Martin Johnson Safari Museum, Chanute, and sent in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

11:00 a.m.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Friends and family are invited to come to the funeral home at any time to sign the memorial book

Mary Jo (Schmidler) Krug passed away May 26, 2010. She was born May 29, 1930 at the family home in Clay Center, Kansas. She was the first child born to Mary Cooper and Carl Schmidler.

At age 2 the family moved to Marysville, Kansas where she lived until 1960.  She attended Lincoln Grade School, Central Grade School and graduated in 1948 from Marysville High School.

She married R.L. Krug in 1951, they were later divorced. They were the parents of two daughters, Nancy Lee and Teresa Lynnette.

After working at R&G Grocery Store, Dutchmaid and Powell Brothers Plumbing she moved to Boca Raton Florida in 1977 where she worked and retired from K-Mart. She returned to Manhattan in 2007.

Survivors include daughters Nancy Warner and Teresa Roberts, sister Dorothy Moser all of Manhattan, brother Jack Schmidler and his wife Marilyn of North Platte, Nebraska, sisters-in-law Donna Schmidler of Beverly Hills, Florida and Peggy (Krug-Mathis) Lawrence of St. Joseph Missouri. Nieces Susan Cress, Shari Schmidler, Debbie Grimes, nephews Jim Moser of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Mickey Mathis of Iuka, Kansas.

Jo was the proud grandmother of Kate Warner Ladelle, and Jake Warner and great grandmother of Tristan Ladelle. She was preceded in death by her parents Mary and Carl Schmidler, brother George Schmidler, sister Kay Louise Schmidler, brother-in-law Glen Moser and niece Peggy Moser Richardson.

Following cremation, a memorial service will be held at 11:00 on June 1, 2010 at Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home in Manhattan, Kansas. Memorial contributions can be made to the Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research-KSU and left in care of Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home 1317 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

3:00 p.m.
Friday, May 21, 2010

The family of Mr. Fortner will receive friends for an hour preceding the funeral service.

Ray Fortner, 88, of Manhattan, KS passed away after a short illness on Monday, May 17, 2010 at Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

Charles Ray was born July 30, 1921 at Manhattan, KS the son of George Harim Fortner and Addie Jane (Anglin) Fortner.  He grew up in the Manhattan area, attending school at Manhattan and Stockdale and graduating from the Washington, KS High School in 1940.

Ray served with the Merchant Marines in World War II; he served on ships in the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean Theatres.  He sailed on the Walter Camp, the Zona Gale, The John F. Shaforoth and the Ralph A. Cram.  During this time in the Merchant Marines, Mr. Fortner graduated from Engineering Officer Training School at New London, Connecticut.

He was united in marriage to Erma Wilkins on December 24, 1946 at Manhattan.  She survives of the home.

After returning from the war, Ray welded for Viking Manufacturing; he later became General Manager and part owner of the Manhattan Lincoln-Mercury dealership, and also operated Ray’s Auto Sales in Manhattan.  In 1957 he returned to engineering at K-State as the maintenance engineer for Grain Science & Industry and in 1975 moved to the American Institute of Baking as the Chief Engineer.

He enjoyed boating, hunting and fishing, and he was an avid golfer.

He was an active member of the Lafayette Lodge No. 16, A.F. & A.M., Manhattan Shrine Club, Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786, all of Manhattan.  Other memberships included the Scottish Rite Bodies and Isis Shrine, both of Salina, KS, the Gulfstream Chapter American Merchant Marine Veterans, and the Elks Lodge No. 1185.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Efton Fortner; and two sisters, Ruth Taylor and Helen Fortner.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Fortner is survived by a son, Rex Fortner, Manhattan; a daughter, Coleen Esping, and her husband, Wes, Olsburg, KS; two granddaughters, the Rev. Amanda Esping and Angie Kelley, and husband, Roger; and two great grandchildren, Wesley Kelley and Abigail Kelley.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 21, 2010 with visitation preceding the service in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Nancy Kollhoff officiating.  Burial, with Masonic and Military honors, will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family will receive friends for an hour preceding the funeral service.

Memorial contributions to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children may be left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Doris D. Utermoehlen, 85, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, May 15, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born June 28, 1924 at Lebanon, KS, eight miles from the geographic center of the 48 states, the daughter of Roy Russell Myers and Mabel Ann Mannering Myers.  She grew up in Lebanon, where she attended the local schools and was a 1942 graduate of the Lebanon High School.  She was a graduate of the Browne Macke Business School in Salina and in 1948 received her B.S. Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University.

She was married to Ralph E. Utermoehlen on February 1, 1948 at Manhattan.  He preceded her in death on June 3, 2007.

Mrs. Utermoehlen worked as a secretary while living in St. Joseph, MO and Lawrence, KS.  After moving to Manhattan in 1974, she worked as a secretary at the First Lutheran Church and for 10 years worked as a secretary and receptionist in the Payroll Office at KSU.  She retired in 1992.

She was a member of the College Avenue United Methodist Church, the St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheels, AARP, Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 Auxiliary and the Red Hat Society.  Mrs. Utermoehlen, along with her husband, Ralph, helped in the founding of the Manhattan Dance Club and they traveled extensively attending polka dances.  She was an avid Lady Head Vase Collector.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Utermoehlen was preceded in death by a son, Thomas E. Utermoehlen on January 9, 2009; her parents; and two brothers, Archie Myers and Russell Myers.

Survivors include a daughter, Brenda J. Galati, and her husband, Phil, Florissant, MO; a son, Randy R. Utermoehlen, and his wife, Wanda, Jefferson City, MO; three grandchildren, Michael D. Heckman, Michelle R. Heckman and Jamie L. Tackitt; and six great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 19, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Larry Fry officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family of Mrs. Utermoehlen will receive friends from 7 until 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the K-State Alumni Association or the Lebanon Alumni Association and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010

7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Monday, May 10, 2010

Margaret M. Vacek, 87, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, May 7, 2010 in the Stoneybrook Retirement Center, Manhattan.

She was born July 3, 1922 in Marshall County, KS, the daughter of Joseph Kanz and Ethel A. Criss Kanz.  She was a 1939 graduate of the Blaine, KS High School and a graduate of the Central Business College, Kansas City, MO.  During World War II, she spent 1941 through 1943, working for the Navy Department in Washington D.C.

She was united in marriage to Joseph J. Vacek on October 7, 1943 at Hays, KS.  He preceded her in death on December 17, 2001.

Mrs. Vacek had been a resident of Manhattan since 1945.  She worked many years in the Investment Department at the Farm Bureau Insurance Company as an executive secretary and retired in 1979.  She was a member of the Pilot Club of Manhattan and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786 Auxiliary.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Vacek was preceded in death by a son, Gary Allen Vacek on September 8, 1995; and her parents.

Survivors include a niece, Karen Cox, Downs, KS; a brother, Jolen E. Kanz, and his wife, June, Tacoma, WA; and good friends, Cindy and Tim Donohoue, and their children, Jordan and Nicholas, Manhattan.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 11, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with Father Merlin Kieffer officiating.  Burial will follow in the Gatesville Cemetery, Clay Center, KS.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 7 until 8:00 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

10:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 8, 2010

7:00 p.m. Visitation
8:00 p.m. Rosary
Friday, May 7, 2010

Leo P. Helget, Jr., 82, St. George, KS passed away Monday, May 3, 2010 at his home.

He was born December 9, 1927 in the Flush community, the son of Leo J. Helget and Irene C. Unterberger Helget.   He grew up in the Flush community, where he attended the local schools and was a 1946 graduate of the Flush High School.

He was united in marriage to Joan E. Ridder on November 18, 1948 at Flush.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Helget had been a lifelong area resident.  He farmed in the Flush area for many years and since 1966 had worked as a bulk fuel truck driver.  He had driven a truck for the Griffith Oil Company and the Farmers Co-operative Association, both of Manhattan.  Since his retirement in the mid 1990’s, he had also worked for the Wanklyn Oil Company, Frankfort.

He was an active member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he sang in the choir and was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 902 and the 4^th Degree.  He was also a member of the Rock Creek Watershed Association.   

In addition to his wife, Mr. Helget is survived by a son, Gary Helget, and his wife, Sara, Westmoreland, KS; two daughters, Donna Helget, Lakewood, CO and Mary Jo Schmitt, and her husband, Randy, Manhattan; a sister, Margaret Mary Umscheid, and her husband, Carrol, Topeka, KS; four grandchildren, Shannon Conrow, Jake Helget, Tricia LaGabed and Stacy Schmitt; and six great grandchildren, Lauren, Rebecca, Caleb, Hanna, Devon and Kaitlyn.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Mary Ann Helget in 1951; his parents; a brother, Dennis J. “Swede” Helget in 1997; and a grandson, Michael Schmitt in 2009.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 8, 2010 in the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Flush with Father John Pilcher and Father Carl Dekat as con-celebrants.  Burial will follow in the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

The family of Mr. Helget will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until a Rosary is recited at 8:00 p.m., Friday, May 7, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund or the American Cancer Society and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010

The family will receive friends with a reception, immediately following the memorial service, in Fellowship Hall, of the church.

The family also includes:  Five grandsons: Derrick Boos (St. Joseph, Mo.), Kyle Boos (Atchison, Kan.), Greg Havenstein (deceased), Jake Havenstein (Overland Park, Kan.) and John Havenstein (Manhattan); two granddaughters: Jessica Staszkiewicz and Janae Britt (Lawrence, Kan.); one great granddaughter: Elizabeth Britt (Lawrence, Kan.); one great grandson: Alex Staszkiewicz (Lawrence, Kan.).

While the family grew, Lavonna worked several challenging jobs. After moving to Manhattan, she spent the most time as a Nutritionist at Memorial Hospital, independently and at K-State, where she spent five years teaching in the Dietetics, Restaurant and Institutional Management Department. Prior to her teaching days, she worked at a bank, as a legal secretary and as the operator of a child daycare center. In the ‘80s, she owned and operated a fruit orchard business near Salina, Kan. She then retired spent 10 years working for Welcome Wagon, an organization in Manhattan that introduced newcomers to town.

Lavonna enjoyed her social activities in the community, with membership in the Beta Sigma Phi sorority and Pilot Club of Manhattan, serving as president in 1988-89. She also helped to found Sunflower Pilot Club, Manhattan’s second Pilot Club, which she led as president in 1990-91. In fact, Lavonna participated in state and national Pilot Club activities, particularly enjoying the atmosphere of conventions. She also delivered Meals-on-wheels to the homebound.

There were many joys in Lavonna’s life. Her family was one, but there were more and she pursued them in a clever and enthusiastic way. Cooking and baking both fit Lavonna well. Family and friends knew her for her exploits as a baker and cook. As a member of a Creative Cookery group, she loved to host and attend these parties. As a member of the United Methodist Church on Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, Lavonna spent more than 20 years singing in the choir, in addition to serving as a volunteer in the church kitchen for a variety of activities. Whenever Sunday came, she was ready to sing. In fact, she always had a tune in mind, frequently humming a melody – wherever she was – and was never embarrassed to be overheard.

The words of Lavonna’s family focus on the joy in her life. Some attributes were repeated a few times, but what follows is a good sample of what her children and grandchildren had to say.

Mothering

• Mom was a humming, happy, caring, loving, accepting and wonderful mother.

• She would visit when Dad was overseas and we became friends as adults on our own terms, but the mother was always there with her advice and insight.

Tune and tone

• We will always remember how joyful, happy, sweet, positive and calming she was, humming a tune or singing a song with that big smile – all while she worked in the kitchen.
• One family friend said she was a walking music box.
• She was always sweet, loving and in a good mood.

 Tales from the past

• On vacation one summer in Wyoming, she told stories about her life I’d never heard before. It was a special night.

 Music

• Whether she sang or spoke, her voice was always sweet, her eyes sparkling and her sometimes-ornery smile always loving.
• Even into her later years, her giggle was great.

 Food

• Sometimes I would walk through the door and she’d ask if I wanted a pizza.
• She had signature snacks that we all loved, such as the yellow cake with raspberry Jell-o and fruit pizza with kiwis, strawberries and cream cheese.

 Time well spent

• Our annual Mother’s Day brunches will always be my favorite.
• Thursday nights when Dad was away, we’d go to Aggieville and order Chinese takeout – just my Mom and I.

Frank loved all of these qualities too and felt blessed to share in his wife’s beautiful ways with the rest of their family.

In Lavonna’s honor, Frank donated time, expertise, plants and flowers to Meadowlark Hills, where Lavonna spent the last several years of her life as a patient in one of the facility’s care units. Though the disease increasingly hid her from her family and friends during these painful years, the love she gave and the joy she spread were never forgotten. Eternity is now hers to hum as she pleases.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 21, 2010 in the First United Methodist Church, Manhattan with the Rev. Kay Scarbrough officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date.

The family will receive friends with a reception, immediately following the memorial service, in Fellowship Hall, of the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to the family in care of www.irvinparkview.com.

10:00 a.m.
Saturday, April 17, 2010

Family and friends are invited to a reception in Fellowship Hall, of the church, immediately following the graveside services.

10:00 a.m.
Thursday, April 8, 2010

Friends are invited to sign the memorial book at any time.

Polly Williams, nee Olie Louise Carley, 88, passed away Friday, April 2, 2010 in the Stoneybrook Health Care Center, Manhattan, with her family at her side.

She was born August 26, 1921 in St. George, Kansas, the youngest of five daughters of Cecil Denney Carley and Richard Carley. She attended school in St. George. On November 27, 1938, she was united in marriage to Phillip M. Williams, in Manhattan.

Polly led an active life, giving tirelessly to her family and friends. She served as business manager for the family business of Williams Appliances from the early 1950's until 1986, when Phillip retired. She lent her sense of fun to the Girl Scouts as a troop leader for several years, and could be seen riding her bicycle to work when she was in her fifties. She turned a cartwheel every year on her birthday, up to the age of 75.

She was a member of Ashland Community Church and the Fort Knightly Club of Ashland for her entire adult life. She was a member of the Riley County Historical Society.

The family lived near Sunset Park, and as a member of Sunset Zoo, Polly was a frequent visitor for many years. She loved to host dinners with Phillip, and their home was always a welcoming destination for family and friends. Polly loved to keep moving, and guests were usually persuaded into a long walk after dinner. She and Phil enjoyed many trips abroad.  Later, in their retirement years, they were members of the Man-Kan Campers and traveled closer to home.

Polly is survived by a son, Garry Williams and his wife, Shirley, of Ballwin MO; a daughter, Linda Williams of Greensboro NC; two sisters, Dorthea Niemoeller, of Manhattan, and May Spear of Lyons, KS; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Phillip, in 2004, her parents and two sisters, Edna Nelson and Loretta Abt.

Memorial services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 8, 2010 in the Ashland Community Church. Inurnment will follow in the Ashland Cemetery.  The Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Friends of the Sunset Zoo, or to the Konza Prairie Research Excellence Fund (F53200) and left in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.  

A Rosary and Vigil Service will be at 7:00 p.m., Monday, April 5, 2010.

Victoria “Vickie” M. George, 78, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, April 2, 2010 in her home.

She was born September 29, 1931 at Minneapolis, MN, the daughter of Joseph Sumbs and Marie J. Jockum Sumbs.  She grew up in the Crosby and Irontown, MN areas and attended the local schools.  She was a 1951 graduate of the St. Mary’s Vocational School of Nursing, Rochester, MN.

She was united in marriage to Dennis J. George on August 25, 1951 in Crosby.  He preceded her in death on April 2, 2009.

Mrs. George had worked as a LPN for many years.  She lived in Killeen, TX from 1958 until moving to Manhattan in 1974.  Since living in Manhattan, she had worked at the Wharton Manor Nursing Home, the College Hill Nursing Home and the St. Mary’s Hospital.  She retired in 1987.

She was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Altar Society, Seven Dolors Women’s Circle #4, Budget Shop, Breakfast for the Homeless, Meals On Wheels, Seven Dolors Food Pantry and was a lifetime member of the Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 Auxiliary., all of Manhattan.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. George was preceded in death by a son, Dennis J. George, Jr. on July 31, 2005; a daughter, Donna M. George, on November 2, 2008; her parents; step father, Emil Beireis; a brother, Daniel J. Sumbs; and five sisters, Rita Hanson, Josephine Halverson, Hildagarde Corey, Hycenthea Neopotino and her twin sister, Veronica Sipper Hanson.

Survivors include two sons, Dale R. George, and his wife, Brenda, Lathrop, MO and Douglas E. George, and his wife, Tina, San Antonio, TX; two daughters, Deborah A. Price and Doreen M. Ray, and her husband, Charles, all of Manhattan; two sisters, Clara Hilden, Crosby, MN and Sophia Doig, Sun Lakes, AZ; 17 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and 1 great great grandchild.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 6, 2010 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church with Father Joseph Popelka as celebrant.  Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, in the Elbo community, east of Manhattan.

A Rosary and Vigil Service will be at 7:00 p.m., Monday, April 5, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan. 

Memorial contributions can be made to the Seven Dolors Catholic Church and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences for the family can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, April 4, 2010

Jesse W. Wilhoite, Sr., 88, Manhattan, KS passed away Saturday, March 27, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

He was born December 28, 1921 at Paola, KS, the son of Fred Lee Wilhoite and Emma Lou Dillard Wilhoite.  He grew up in Paola and was a 1939 graduate of the Paola High School.  In 1951, he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University.

Mr. Wilhoite was a veteran of U.S. Army and served in the European Theatre during World War II.  He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant from the 356^th Engineer Regiment in November 1945.  He had been a Manhattan resident since that time.

He was united in marriage to Loretta M. Jackson on December 21, 1945 at Manhattan.  She preceded him in death on May 8, 1993.

Mr. Wilhoite worked for the U.S. Postal Service for over 28 years, retiring as a Supervisor of Clerks in 1984.  Over the years, he was involved in many other business ventures and jobs.  He was affiliated with the Pilgrim Baptist Church, Manhattan.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Wilhoite was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Fred, Ernest and Robert Wilhoite; and two grandchildren.

Survivors include four sons, Jesse W. Wilhoite, Jr., Michael L. Wilhoite, and his wife, Toni, Gregory L. Wilhoite and Ernest D. Wilhoite, all of Manhattan; four daughters, Paula M. Fuller, and her husband, Henry, Reisterstown, MD, Victoria Brooks, and her husband, George Brooks, Jr., Manhattan, Lori Powell, and her husband, Alton, Vine Grove, KY, and Jacqueline Norman, and her husband, Alvin, Junction City, KS; two brothers, Noble Dean Wilhoite, Paola, KS and Delco Warren Wilhoite, Winslow, AZ; five sisters, Venice Greenwood and Martha Towns, both of Leavenworth, KS, Mamie Elizabeth Anderson, Indianapolis, IN, Roberta Mae Young, Colorado Springs, CO and Myrna Bernard, Hutchinson, KS; 18 grandchildren; and 21 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 5, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with Pastor David Helm officiating.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.

The family of Mr. Wilhoite will receive friends from 5 until 7:00 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research-KSU and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Friends are invited to come to the funeral home to sign the memorial book at any time.

Inez Marie Kistner, 97, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, April 1, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan surrounded by people who loved her.

She was born May 26, 1912 in Manhattan, the daughter of Charlie Willyard and Ada Chalmers Willyard.  She spent most of her life in Manhattan with the exception of a short time in Nebraska City, NE and several years in Wichita.  She attended the Manhattan schools and the Dague Business University in Wichita in the early 1930’s.

She was united in marriage to Ray Kistner on August 7, 1937 in Manhattan.  He preceded her in death on October 2, 1984.

Mrs. Kistner and her husband owned and operated Kistner’s Flowers in Manhattan for many years before retiring in 1974.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Kistner was preceded in death by her parents; and three brothers, Arthur, Johnnie and Elmer Willyard.

Survivors include a very good friend and companion, Lee Hoffman, Manhattan; a daughter, Doris Felix, and her husband, Manny, Tucson, AZ; a step son, Garland Kistner, Vancouver, WA; several grandchildren; a step granddaughter; a great grandson; and two nieces.

Graveside services will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 5, 2010 in the Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan.  Memorial contributions can be made to the KSU Gardens and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com. 

Clarence E. (Bud) Stewart died Monday, March 29 at Mercy Regional Health Center. He was 88 years old.

Bud was born on July 29, 1921 in Hartford, Kansas to Clyde & Janie (Maxey) Stewart. He graduated from Hartford High School in 1939. Following high school he attended Kansas State University. With WW II increasing in intensity, he joined the US Army Air Forces reserve program in May of 1942. He was called to duty in February 1943. Prior to shipping off to his overseas assignment he married his high school sweet heart, Mary Jean West on April 16, 1944. He served in Okinawa and Tinian, Japan on a B-29 crew, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Upon his discharge from the US Army Air Forces he returned to Kansas State University, graduating in 1947. After graduation, he then started working for Manhattan Mutual Life Insurance Company. During his 37 years with the company, he served as accountant, assistant secretary, secretary, and for the most of those years he was Vice President and Secretary. He retired in August of 1983.

He was active in community work, serving on the board of directors of the Riley County Red Cross, the United Way, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Stagg Hill Golf Club. He was president of Stagg Hill Golf Club at the time the course was built at its current location. He served on the Kansas City Risk Selectors’ Board and as Secretary-Treasurer and then Vice President of the Kansas Life Insurance Executives’ Association. He was very active in the First United Methodist Church having served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Sunday School and was chairman of several committees.

His membership in Kiwanis spanned over 62 years garnering him the recognition as the longest member in the State of Kansas. During his membership he served in most offices including president and State Lieutenant Governor.

After retirement he continued his volunteer work. He became a docent at the Riley County Museum, a state docent for the Goodnow House Museum, and served for 10 years on the Wolfe House Museum committee. He was the church financial secretary for 4 years and then took over the church food pantry for 10 years. He delivered Meals on Wheels for the hospital, volunteered at the Flinthills Breadbasket, and after moving to Meadowlark Hills, he did volunteer work there.

He had a passion for fishing and golfing and developed life long buddies doing these sports together. He especially enjoyed his old man coffee group at Burger King.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years in October 2002. He is survived by his two daughters, Ann Taylor and husband Chuck of Bonner Springs and Susan Taussig and husband Mark of Manhattan.  His 8 grandchildren include Charla Nichol and husband Chad, Holli Spalding and husband Jason, Samantha Taylor, Jacob Taussig and wife Trisha, Hayley Redden and husband Arlen, Derek Taussig, Emily Boyles and husband Alan, Jayney Watson and husband Anthony. He also has 10 great grandchildren Audra and Kaylissa Nichols, Charlie Spalding, Curtis, Colton, Cannon, and Creed Taussig, Amariah and Ryker Redden, and Madelyn Boyles.

The celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 3, 2010 at 2:00 at the Meadowlark Hills Community Room. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church or to the Meadowlark Hills Foundation and may be left in care of Irvin Parkview Funeral Home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Graveside inurnment services for Christabelle Fitzgerald will be at 12:30 p.m., Monday, March 22, 2010 in the Sunset Cemetery, Manhattan.  She passed away Sunday, February 21, 2010 in the St. Joseph Village, Manhattan.

She was born May 27, 1912 at Plainview, TX, the daughter of Harry Gillispie Thomson and Tessie Carr Thomson.  She came to Manhattan with her family, as a small child, and had been a longtime Manhattan area resident.  She attended the local schools and was a graduate of the Manhattan High School.

She was united in marriage to Raymond Fitzgerald on June 1, 1930 at Manhattan.  He preceded her in death in 1976.

Mrs. Fitzgerald was a homemaker and a member of the First Christian Church, Manhattan.  Many will remember her as a greeter and hostess at the McDonald’s Restaurant on north Third Street for over 10 years.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Fitzgerald was preceded in death by a son, Robert Fitzgerald in 2001; a daughter, Patricia L. Baker in 2001; her parents; and two sisters, Virginia Green and Mildred Frieri.

Survivors include a son, Jerry Fitzgerald, and his wife, Joanne, of Boscobel, WI; a daughter, Christa Wimmers, Albany, OR; a sister, Frances VanScoyoc, Manhattan; nine grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and six great great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made to the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

The family of Mrs. Fitzgerald will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:30 a.m., Monday, March 22, 2010 at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home.

William G. Reece, 67, Manhattan, KS passed away Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at St. Francis Health Center, Topeka.

He was born April 15, 1942, in Dearborn, Michigan, the son of George W. and Dorsey G. Baker Reece.

Mr. Reece enter the US Army in 1959, and retired at Fort Riley as a First Sergeant in 1979.  He served in Vietnam from August 1967 through August 1968, including the 1968 TET Offensive and Counter Offensive.  During his service in Vietnam he was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for heroism; the Bronze Star Medal; the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism; the Vietnam Service Medal with four Campaign Stars; the Vietnam Campaign Medal; the US Army Meritorious Unit Citation; and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm.  Years later he received the Military Police Corps Regiment Order of the Marechaussee.

After his retirement from the Army, Mr. Reece first served with the Junction City Police Department and then with the Riley County Police Department, retiring as a Sergeant in 1999.  During this period, he attended Kansas State University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1988.

Mr. Reece was an avid motorcyclist, traveling throughout the United States with his wife Becki and enjoying the outdoors.  From 1995 to 2000 he and his wife were the Kansas hosts of the annual Run For The Wall motorcycle pilgrimage from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. for the Rolling Thunder Memorial Day parade which is held on the Sunday before Memorial Day to bring attention to all American Prisoners of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) and the government’s response to this issue.

Mr. Reece married Irmtraud Mainz in Friedberg, West Germany, in 1962.  They were later divorced in 1981.

Mr. Reece married Becki S. Plata April 25, 1991 in Manhattan.  She survives of the home.

Survivors include two sons, William G., Jr. and David J. of Texas; two daughters, Loretta S. and Christine D. of Kansas; a stepson Phillip G. Spiker of St. Paul, MN and a stepdaughter, Debra S. Hudelson, O’Fallon, MO; as well as 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, March 15, 2010 at the University Christian Church, 2800 Claflin Road, with Ron Brown officiating.  Burial will follow in the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Sunday at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America or the Terry C. Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research-KSU and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Grace A. Boyd, 87, passed away Monday, March 8, 2010 at the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born April 25, 1922 in Watertown, South Dakota the daughter of Lewis and Maggie Percival Moss.  She grew up in Watertown and graduated from the local high school.  She was married to William Douglas Boyd in Kansas City, Kansas. 

Mrs. Boyd lived in Kansas City, Kansas for 30 years, in Harlingen, Texas for 27 years, and in Manhattan from 2003 to the present.

She is survived by her son, Allen Boyd, Linden, TN; daughters, Michale Glover, Walnut Shade, MO and Pat Freeman, Manhattan, KS; son-in-law and wife, Ron and Nancy Hill, Olathe, KS; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Grace had been entertaining since she was a child, singing, playing piano and ukulele.  While living in Harlingen, she put on many musical shows with her group “The Ukulele Ladies”.  In Manhattan, she played with the Uptown Band at the Senior Center playing and singing and helping to choreograph skits. 

Grace was active in the Rainbow Boulevard Nazarene Church in Kansas City, Kansas for 30 years and later in the Methodist Church in LaFeria, Texas.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 15, 2010 at the Meadowlark Hills Community Room, Manhattan with Matthew Cobb officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date in the LaCygne Memorial Gardens Cemetery, LaCygne, Kansas. 

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Neva Nielsen, 93, died February 28, 2010, at Bramlage House, Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community, in Manhattan, Kansas.  She had resided in Independent Living at Meadowlark Hills from April 2003 to May 2009.  Neva, and a twin sister, Ruth, were born to Cynthia and Paul Nelson near Bostwick, Nebraska on June 14, 1916.  Neva married Ervin Nielsen of rural Ruskin, Nebraska on June 7, 1947.  Monty Eugene Nielsen, a son, was born to their union on May 25, 1949.  Ervin farmed and Neva helped him, as well as taught school during their nearly 25 years of marriage.  Ervin preceded her in death on April 19, 1972.  Neva had graduated from Nelson (Nebraska) High School in May 1934, having pursued Normal Training in grades 11 and 12 in preparation for a teaching career.  She began teaching in a one-room country school in Webster County (Nebraska) in the fall of 1936.  Neva first enrolled at Nebraska (Kearney) State Teachers College in the summer of 1936 to begin pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in education.  In the summer of 1970, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Degree from Kearney State College, now UNK.  An academic scholarship exists in her name there today.  In addition, Neva also had attended the University of Washington (Seattle), the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley.  She taught a total of 30 years in several Nebraska communities, concluding her career as a third grade teacher from 1970 to 1982 at North Ward Elementary School in Superior, Nebraska.  Neva was loved and respected as a teacher.  A former board member once commented that “we need more teachers like Mrs. Nielsen.”

Neva joined Beulah (Nebraska) Reformed Presbyterian Church in her teens, then transferred her membership to Bethel Lutheran Church of Abdal, Nebraska, (and later Salem Lutheran) following her marriage to Ervin.  She was active in her church, its many organizations, and was a true believer with a deep and genuine faith.  Neva said often that her philosophy of life was “to do the best that you can with what you have been given”—she truly lived that philosophy.  Neva was a generous, kind, loving mother, grandmother, family member, teacher, and friend, and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.  She loved all of her family, the children that she taught, politics, and also baseball—the Brooklyn Dodgers were her favorite team, and Ted Williams her favorite player!

Neva is survived by one son, Monty E. Nielsen, and her daughter-in-law, Anne S. Nielsen, both of Manhattan, Kansas; two grandchildren, Monty P. Nielsen, of Brooklyn, New York, and Noreen A. Nielsen, of Washington, D.C.; several nieces and nephews, including Mary (Hobbs) Leenerts, of Overland Park, Kansas; Charley Hobbs, of Germany; Cynthia Hobbs, of Lincoln, Nebraska; James Nelson, of Tucson, Arizona; and Norma Nelson, of Wichita, Kansas; as well as several great-nieces and nephews.  In addition to her husband, Ervin, Neva was preceded in death by her parents, Cynthia and Paul Nelson; five sisters, Bertha, Clara, Erma, Ruth, and Violet; two brothers, James, and Russell; and several other family members.

A funeral service for Neva will be held at Williams Funeral Home in Superior, Nebraska on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 1:30 p.m.  Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Superior, Nebraska.  In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions can be made to the Neva Nielsen Memorial Fund and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Drusilla M. “Dru” Barker, 89, Manhattan, KS passed away Thursday, February 11, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

She was born January 13, 1921 at Manhattan, but grew up and attended the schools in Pratt, KS.  She received her BS degree in Home Economics from Kansas State University.

She was united in marriage to Dorsey G. Barker on August 6, 1944 at Pratt.  He preceded her in death on April 16, 1993.

Mrs. Barker lived in many locations of the United States and abroad, while following her husband in his U.S. Air Force career.  They retired and moved to Manhattan in October 1974.  She was a homemaker, but had worked in the Extension Service-Home Demonstration Unit in Marion, KS, immediately following college and as a real estate agent, while living in Florida.

She was a member of the University Christian Church, FCE (Riley County Family and Community Education) of the Extension Service, Clovia 4H Scholarship House, Welcome Wagon, several bridge groups and was an active volunteer at the Mercy Regional Health Center.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Barker was preceded in death by a son, Gary Barker, on May 20, 1948; her parents; and a brother, Oscar Norby.

Survivors include three daughters, Cheryl Levin, and her husband, Otto, Kensington, KS, Darcie Barker, Manhattan and Debra Brannon, and her husband, Glenn, Big Sandy, TX; a brother, Dr. Marvin A. Norby, and his wife, Mary, Sioux City, IA; a sister, Melba Scott, and her husband, Richard, Pratt, KS; a sister-in-law, Pauline Norby, Manhattan; nine grandchildren, Travis Levin, and his wife, Carmen, Joshua Levin, Chad Brannon, and his wife, Carly, Jolene Brannon, Jana Brannon, Jason Brannon, Jordon Brannon, Christopher Brannon and Truett Brannon; and five great grandchildren, Keeten, Bella and Annalise Levin and Hudson and Ford Brannon.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at the University Christian Church, Manhattan with Ryan Hayden officiating.  Graveside services will be at 3:30 p.m., Tuesday in the Greenlawn Cemetery, Pratt.

The family of Mrs. Barker will receive friends from 7 until 8:30 Monday at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.

Memorial contributions can be made to the University Christian Church or the Mercy Community Health Foundation and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Delbert “Del” LeRoy Tolbert, 79, Manhattan, KS passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at a Manhattan nursing home.

He was born March 22, 1930 at Auburn, KS, the son of LeRoy Albert Tolbert and Alice Mildred Renyer Tolbert.  He grew up in Auburn and Tecumseh, KS and was a 1948 graduate of the Denison High School.

He was united in marriage to Mary Frances Barr on July 22, 1950 at Emporia, KS.  She survives of the home.

Mr. Tolbert taught in a one-room school house in Anderson County, KS for two years.  From 1956-1960 he taught 6^th grade at Hutton Elementary before becoming the principal at Murray Hill Elementary.  In 1968 he became a Manhattan resident and principal at Northview Elementary for 15 years.  He retired in 1984.

After retirement, Mr. Tolbert owned and operated Del-Mar Home Decorating in Manhattan for 12 years.  During that time he taught soldiers at Ft. Riley in achieving their GED degrees.

He attended the First Baptist Church, Manhattan.  His hobbies included picture framing, gardening, bird watching and he was an avid reader.  He will be remembered for his sense of humor and storytelling.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Mary Lou Jensen and Carolyn Kay Eubanks.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Tolbert is survived by a son, Steven D. Tolbert, and his wife, Gail, Overland park, KS; three daughters, Cynthia J. Gunckel, and her husband, Leslie, Round Rock, TX, Susan K. Liotta, and her husband, James, Topeka, KS and Sara L. Rempel, and her husband, Terry, Manhattan; 11 grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

Cremation is planned.  Family of Mr. Tolbert will greet friends from 2 until 6 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Crestview Christian Church, 4761 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan.  No additional services are scheduled.  Inurnment will be held at a later date in Garnett.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northview Elementary School Library or the Manhattan Public Library and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Ruth V. Ehlers, 95, Manhattan, KS passed away Sunday, January 31, 2010 at the Meadowlark Hills/Bramlage House, Manhattan.

She was born January 15, 1915 at Omaha, NE, the daughter of Daniel Elias Ehlers and Nellie Jeanette Kopman Ehlers.  She grew up in Bellevue, NE, where she attended the local schools and was a 1932 graduate of the Bellevue High School.  She later was a graduate of the Boyles Business College, Omaha.

Miss Ehlers worked at the Union Pacific Railroad headquarters in Omaha for over 33 years, retiring in 1975 as a supervisor in the accounting department.  She had been a Manhattan resident since 1979.  She was an active member of the First Baptist Church, Manhattan and had served as a deaconess and was the financial secretary for two terms.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Doris Ehlers; and four brothers, Daniel Peter Ehlers, Harold Ellsworth Ehlers, Leonard Leroy Ehlers and Earl Robert Ehlers.

Survivors include three nieces, Janet Johnson, Grants Pass, OR, Lennie Sortino, Omaha, NE and Joan Caruso, Huson, MT; and a nephew, Daniel Ehlers, Buena Vista, CO.

Cremation is planned.  Memorial services will be at 3:00 p.m., Friday, February 5, 2010 in the Community Room at Meadowlark Hills with Pastor Rick Neubauer officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date in the Forest Lawn Cemetery, Omaha.

Memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church, Manhattan and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Roberta “Bert” Magnett, 80 formerly of Manhattan, KS passed away
Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the Westy Community Care Home, Westmoreland, KS, where she had been a resident for the past 8 years.

She was born on March 21, 1929 at Wheaton, KS, the daughter of Albert L. and Delia A. Linderman Trudo.  She grew up in Wamego and was a 1947 graduate of Wamego Rural High School.

She was united in marriage to Clinton W. “Slick” Magnett on May 27, 1949 at Wamego.  He preceded her in death on October 25, 2002.

The Magnett’s farmed in the Wamego area for many years before moving to Manhattan in 1978.  Roberta enjoyed gardening, auctions, garage sales, and collecting toys and banks.

Mrs. Magnet was a former member of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church, Manhattan.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Magnett was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, John Trudo.

Survivors include a brother, Frank Trudo, and his wife, Tina, Wamego; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, January 29, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Loren Werth officiating.  Burial will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan.  Friends and family are invited to come by the funeral home at any time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Westy Community Care Home and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Walter “Walt” Bergsten, 89, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, January 22, 2010 in the Mercy Regional Health Center, Manhattan.

He was born December 23, 1920 at Randolph, KS, the son of Roy Bergsten and Anna Peterson Bergsten.  He grew up on the family farm, east of Randolph in Blue Valley Township (Pottawatomie County), and attended the local schools.  He was a graduate of the Randolph High School.

He was united in marriage to Geneva Johnson on October 29, 1944 at Randolph.  She preceded him in death in September 1991.

Mr. Bergsten owned and operated the Valley Falls Lumber Yard in Valley Falls, KS for over 50 years.  He retired in 1995 and had been a Manhattan resident since October 2009.

He was a member of the Valley Falls United Methodist Church and an active member of the Lions and Rotary Clubs, all of Valley Falls.  He was an avid gardener, woodworker and loved his cats and antiques.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Bergsten was preceded in death by an infant son, Eric Walter Bergsten; and his parents.

Survivors include a daughter, Ann Nemechek, Manhattan; a grandson, Delvon Nemechek, and his wife, Meghan, Aspen, CO; and numerous cousins and other relatives.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 26, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with the Rev. Kevin Larson officiating.  Burial will follow in the Randolph Fancy Creek Cemetery, Randolph, KS.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association; the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter; or the Jefferson County District #11 EMS and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Dorcas L. Flowers, 88, Manhattan, KS passed away Friday, January 22, 2010 in the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community/Collins Landing, Manhattan.

She was born December 5, 1921 in Augustaville, PA, the daughter of Paul Dean Ford and Ollie Louise Truesdell Ford.  Her parents were missionaries and she grew up in Jamaica, the Bahama Islands and Pennsylvania.  She was home-schooled in Jamaica and later graduated from Messiah High School in Grantham, PA.  In 1948, she received her B.A. in Commerce from Greenville College, Greenville, IL.

She was united in marriage to Henry M. Flowers on June 7, 1949 in Erie, PA.  He preceded her in death on June 10, 1974.

Accompanying her husband, Mrs. Flowers had lived in Illinois, Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Colorado, and several communities in Kansas.  She was a loving mother, housewife, writer, teacher, Hospice volunteer and loving friend.

She was a member of the Free Methodist Church in McPherson, Wichita and Lawrence, KS, the First United Methodist in Winfield, KS and while living in Manhattan attended the First Baptist Church.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Flowers was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Reuhl Ford and Veril Ford; and two sisters, Clovena Colon and Esther Winsinger.

Survivors include a daughter, Mary Hayden, Marion, IN; four sons, Paul Flowers, and his wife, Bev, Wasilla, AK, Ralph Flowers, and his wife, Terry Bolan, Olsburg, KS, Stephen Flowers, and his companion, Rebeca Delgadillo, Santa Clara, CA and Kent Flowers, and his wife, Carol, Divide, CO; a brother, Seth Ford, North Palm Beach, FL; grandchildren Eddie, Mariah, John and Christina; great grandchildren Hailey and Brandon; numerous nephews and nieces, and other grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 25, 2010 in the First Baptist Church, Manhattan with Gib Clark officiating.

The family of Mrs. Flowers will receive friends from 4 until 5:30 p.m., Sunday, January 24, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 27, 2010 in the Jena Cemetery, Jena, LA.  The family will receive friends for an hour preceding the graveside at the Kinner & Stevens Funeral Home, Jena.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Meadowlark Hills Good Samaritan Fund and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, KS  66502.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Alberta C. Winter, 101, Manhattan, KS passed away Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at the St. Joseph Village, Manhattan.

She was born December 2, 1908 in the Flush community, northeast of Manhattan, the daughter of John Winter and Mary Straub Winter.  She grew up in the Flush community and attended the local schools.

Alberta came to Manhattan in 1948 when her parents moved off the farm and into Manhattan.  She continued her care giving of her parents and worked as a housekeeper for the Seven Dolors Catholic Church Parish House for over 30 years.  She was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church and the Altar Society.  Her hobbies included sewing, crocheting and making quilts for her many friends.  One of her many highlights was a trip she made with her sister, Sister Lucian to the Holy Lands.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and four sisters.  Survivors include many nephews and nieces.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 12, 2010 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan with Father Joseph Popelka and a nephew, Father Earl Dekat as con-celebrants.  Burial will follow in the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery at Flush.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Monday, January 11, 2010 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan with a family visitation to follow.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Manhattan Catholic Schools and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Bette Anne Anderson, 82, Manhattan businesswoman, community leader and longtime resident, passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2009 in the Mercy Regional Health Center after a long respiratory illness.

She was born on January 28, 1927 on a farm near Dwight, the daughter of John “Jack” Morgan and Ethel Paulson Morgan.

Bette Anne graduated as co-valedictorian of her high school class and was a graduate of the Hutchinson Business School.  She was a lifelong business partner with her husband, Milton, in a variety of endeavors beginning with managing the family farm operations in Morris County.  She and her husband moved to Manhattan, KS in 1967 where they were very active in establishing an insurance agency, the Anderson Realty real estate brokerage, the Anderson Auction service, and developing a succession of rental properties.

Bette Anne was active within the Manhattan real estate community.  She served as President of the Manhattan Multiple Listing Service (MLS) from 1989-1992; as a director for the Manhattan Board of Realtors from 1988-1990; served as the Realtor’s Secretary-Treasurer in 1990; and as the Membership Committee Chair for the Manhattan Association of Realtors in 1995.  In 1993 she was named an Honor Society Member by the Kansas Association of Realtors.  Bette Anne was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, a 4-H Community Leader, and a strong supporter of the First Lutheran Church of Manhattan.  She also coached a number of successful softball teams.

In addition to her accomplishments, Bette Anne was devoted first and foremost to her family to whom she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt to numerous nieces and nephews.  Successful in her own endeavors, she was also a strong role model and an encouraging champion of her daughters’ varied pursuits.

In addition to her husband, Milton, who died in August 2001, she was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Wayne Olson and Calvin Morgan.

Bette Anne is survived by four daughters: Patricia Stensrud and her husband Rockwell of New York, NY; Pamela and her husband John Messamore of Florence, AL; Jacqueline Mace and her husband Earl of Charlotte, NC; and Jill Geist and her husband David of Littleton CO; two grandchildren, Sarah and Milton Geist; two brothers, Kenneth and Keith Morgan of Dwight; and a sister, Carolyn Boeh of White City.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, December 26, 2009 at the First Lutheran Church, 930 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan with Rev. Dr. Keith E. Weins officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date in the Marion Hill Cemetery, White City, KS.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Bette Anne’s name to the Homecare & Hospice, Manhattan and left in care of the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, 1317 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Mark G. Riat, 93, Manhattan, KS passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2009 in the St. Joseph Village, Manhattan.

He was born April 26, 1916 on the family farm, in the Louisville Township, north of Wamego, KS, the son of Louis C. Riat and Clara Lintz Riat.  He grew up on the farm and was a 1935 graduate of the Flush High School.

He was united in marriage to Cecelia Josephine Helget on November 30, 1940 at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Flush.  She preceded him in death on February 16, 2004.

Mr. Riat farmed the family property for many years before moving to Manhattan in 1961.  Since living in Manhattan, he had worked as a custodian at Kansas State University, Tuttle Creek State Park, Riley County Senior Service Center and the Manhattan Catholic Schools.  He was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Riat was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Carl, Ed and Leo Riat; and three sisters, Florence Noll, Loretta Dekat and Viola Umscheid.

Survivors include a daughter, Linda Lake, and her husband, Dannie, Manhattan; three sons, Ronald Riat, Junction City, Michael Riat, and his wife, Priscilla, Arcadia, OK and Randy Riat, Manhattan; seven grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 19, 2009 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan with Father Joseph Popelka as celebrant.  Burial will follow in the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Flush.

A Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m., Friday, December 18, 2009 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan.  Visitation with the family will follow at 8:00 p.m.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Seven Dolors Catholic Church or the St. Joseph’s Village and left in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.